Clinical Report: The Cannabis Talk That Doesn't Happen

Overview

A study found that fewer than 1 in 5 older adults who used cannabis discussed it with a clinician. Despite an increase in cannabis use among older adults, screening and discussions about cannabis use remain low, highlighting missed opportunities for clinicians.

Background

Cannabis use among older adults has been rising, with 9.5% reporting past-year use in 2023. This trend is significant due to the potential for adverse effects associated with cannabis use in this population, particularly those with chronic conditions. Understanding the barriers to clinician discussions about cannabis is crucial for improving patient care.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Only 19% of older adults who used cannabis discussed it with a clinician.
• 37% reported being screened for drug use, but without discussion.
• Screening was more common among those with multiple chronic conditions.
• Hispanic/Latine older adults were less likely to report screening and discussions compared to White older adults.
• Past-year alcohol use was positively associated with screening but negatively associated with discussions among cannabis users.
• Structural factors like urbanicity and medical cannabis laws did not influence screening or discussions.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware of the low rates of cannabis discussions with older adults and consider implementing validated screening tools. Attention should be given to disparities in screening and discussions among different racial groups and genders.

Conclusion

The findings indicate a need for enhanced clinician training and support to facilitate discussions about cannabis use among older adults, particularly those at higher risk for adverse effects.

Related Resources & Content

1. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2023 -- The Cannabis Talk That Doesn't Happen
2. The ASCO Post — Another Point of View: Reefer Madness!
3. The ASCO Post — Medical Marijuana: The Topic You Can’t Escape
4. The ASCO Post — Therapeutic Applications for Cannabinoids in Oncology: The Debate Continues
5. Trends in Past-Month Cannabis Use Among Older Adults - PubMed
6. Researchers find older adults rarely discuss cannabis use with clinicians
7. Older Adults’ Perspectives on and Experiences with Cannabis Use: Results From the 2024 National Poll on Healthy Aging - PMC
8. Final Recommendation Statement: Unhealthy Drug Use: Screening | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
9. Screening for Drug Use in Primary Care: Practical Implications of the New USPSTF Recommendation | Guidelines | JAMA Internal Medicine
10. the analytical scientist — Why “Clean” Cannabis May Not Be Clean 
11. Why “Clean” Cannabis May Not Be Clean
12. Medical Marijuana, Recreational Cannabis, and Cardiovascular Health
13. Preparing Geriatrics-Trained Physicians to Discuss Medical Cannabis with their Older Adult Patients
14. Trends in Past-Month Cannabis Use Among Older Adults - PubMed
15. Researchers find older adults rarely discuss cannabis use with clinicians
16. Older Adults’ Perspectives on and Experiences with Cannabis Use: Results From the 2024 National Poll on Healthy Aging - PMC
17. Final Recommendation Statement: Unhealthy Drug Use: Screening | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
18. Screening for Drug Use in Primary Care: Practical Implications of the New USPSTF Recommendation | Guidelines | JAMA Internal Medicine | JAMA Network
19. The Effects, Risks and Side Effects of Marijuana (Weed, Cannabis, THC) | SAMHSA
20. Cannabis Effective January 28, 2025 TABLE OF CON